The whirring of your Craftsman lawn mower is a familiar sound of summer. But what happens when that familiar sound turns into a sputter and a stall? A broken lawnmower can quickly turn your idyllic weekend into a frustrating chore. Thankfully, finding the right Craftsman lawn mower parts doesn’t have to be a struggle. This article will guide you through the best places to find the exact components you need to get your mower running smoothly again. We’ll explore online retailers, brick-and-mortar stores, and even offer tips for finding parts specific to your model.
Quick Answer: You can find Craftsman lawn mower parts from a variety of sources, including online retailers like Amazon and eBay, Sears and other department stores, local hardware stores, and specialty lawn and garden stores.
Online Retailers: The Convenience of Click and Ship
The internet has revolutionized the way we shop, and finding Craftsman lawn mower parts is no exception. Online retailers offer a vast selection of parts, often at competitive prices.
Amazon: The Online Giant
Amazon is a go-to for a wide range of products, including lawn mower parts. The site boasts a huge inventory of Craftsman parts, from blades and spark plugs to belts and air filters.
- Pros:
- Vast selection: You’ll likely find the exact part you need.
- Competitive pricing: Often offers competitive prices, especially with Prime memberships.
- Fast shipping: Prime members enjoy free two-day shipping on many items.
- Cons:
- Part compatibility: Ensure you select the correct part for your specific Craftsman model.
- Return process: Amazon’s return process can be somewhat complex.
eBay: The Auction Marketplace
eBay is a great place to find used or refurbished Craftsman lawn mower parts at a bargain price. You might even find rare or discontinued parts.
- Pros:
- Potential for savings: Find great deals on used parts.
- Variety: You may find parts not readily available elsewhere.
- Cons:
- Part quality: Used parts may not be in the best condition.
- Shipping costs: Shipping costs can vary greatly depending on the seller and location.
Sears: The Original Craftsman Source
Sears, the original home of the Craftsman brand, is still a good place to find parts. While their online selection might not be as extensive as Amazon, they offer parts specifically for Craftsman models, making compatibility easier.
- Pros:
- Craftsman expertise: Sears employees have extensive knowledge of Craftsman products.
- Reliable parts: Parts are likely to be of good quality.
- Cons:
- Limited selection: Online selection might not be as broad as other retailers.
- Pricing: Prices may be higher than some online competitors.
Brick-and-Mortar Stores: The Personal Touch
While online retailers offer convenience, there’s something to be said for visiting a physical store. You can inspect parts before purchasing and get expert advice from knowledgeable staff.
Local Hardware Stores: Your Neighborhood Experts
Local hardware stores often carry a decent selection of Craftsman lawn mower parts. The staff can provide valuable assistance in choosing the right part for your mower.
- Pros:
- Personalized service: Get advice on part compatibility and installation.
- Local support: Can often get parts quickly, especially for common repairs.
- Cons:
- Limited selection: Selection may be smaller than larger retailers.
- Pricing: Prices may be higher than online retailers.
Specialty Lawn and Garden Stores: The Mower Specialists
If you’re looking for a wider selection of parts and expert advice specific to lawnmowers, specialty lawn and garden stores are excellent options.
- Pros:
- Extensive knowledge: Staff have in-depth knowledge of lawn mower repair.
- Broad selection: Often stock a large variety of parts, including hard-to-find items.
- Cons:
- Location: These stores may be less convenient to find than local hardware stores.
- Pricing: Prices can be higher due to specialized inventory.
Finding Parts Specific to Your Craftsman Model: Unlocking the Right Fit
To ensure you buy the correct part, you’ll need to identify your Craftsman lawn mower model. This information is usually located on a sticker or plate attached to the mower itself. Here’s what you’ll typically find:
- Model Number: This is the most important identifier, e.g., “917.370770”.
- Serial Number: This is a unique identifier for your specific mower.
- Engine Type: This will indicate the type of engine your mower has, e.g., “Briggs & Stratton”.
Once you have this information, you can search for parts online or provide it to a store associate for assistance.
Tips for Finding the Right Craftsman Parts:
- Check the part number: Each part has a unique number.
- Use a part diagram: Online retailers often provide diagrams that show the location of different parts.
- Contact the manufacturer: If you’re having trouble finding a part, contact Craftsman directly for support.
- Look for compatible parts: Not all parts are specific to Craftsman. You may find compatible parts from other manufacturers.
Beyond Parts: Maintaining Your Craftsman Mower
Having the right parts is essential, but regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your Craftsman mower running smoothly.
Essential Maintenance Tips:
- Change the oil regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes.
- Replace the air filter: A clean air filter improves fuel efficiency and engine performance.
- Sharpen the blades: Sharp blades provide a cleaner cut and prevent damage to your lawn.
- Clean the mower deck: Remove any grass clippings or debris that accumulate.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Craftsman Mower in Top Shape
Finding the right Craftsman lawn mower parts doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little research and the resources outlined in this article, you can quickly get your mower back in working order. Whether you choose online retailers, brick-and-mortar stores, or a combination of both, remember to identify your mower model and seek help from knowledgeable staff. Finally, don’t forget the importance of regular maintenance to keep your Craftsman running strong for years to come.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about finding replacement parts for your Craftsman lawn mower:
Where can I find Craftsman lawn mower parts online?
You can find Craftsman lawn mower parts online from a variety of retailers, including the official Sears website, Amazon, and eBay. These online stores offer a wide selection of parts, including blades, belts, air filters, spark plugs, and more. You can also find specialized retailers that cater to lawn mower parts, such as Mowers Direct and PartsTree. When shopping online, it’s important to verify the part number and ensure that it is compatible with your specific model.
By researching different online retailers and comparing prices, you can often find the best deals on Craftsman lawn mower parts. You can also check for discounts or coupons that may be available.
Can I buy Craftsman lawn mower parts at a local store?
Yes, you can find Craftsman lawn mower parts at several local stores. Some popular options include:
- Sears: As the original manufacturer of Craftsman, Sears stores often carry a good selection of parts for their lawn mowers.
- Home improvement stores: Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s also stock a range of lawn mower parts, including Craftsman models.
- Independent hardware stores: Local hardware stores may carry some Craftsman parts, especially if they cater to lawn care equipment.
- Lawn mower repair shops: These shops often have a vast inventory of parts, including Craftsman, and can assist with identifying the right part for your mower.
By contacting your local stores or visiting their websites, you can determine if they have the parts you need in stock.
What is the best way to find the right parts for my Craftsman lawn mower?
To ensure you get the correct parts for your Craftsman lawn mower, you need to know the model number. This information can be found on a sticker located on the mower itself, often under the seat or on the side panel. Once you have the model number, you can use it to search for parts online or at local stores.
You can also use the Craftsman website or a parts catalog to search for parts by model number. This will provide you with a detailed list of compatible parts, including diagrams and specifications.
What if I can’t find the specific part I need?
If you are struggling to find a particular part for your Craftsman lawn mower, consider contacting the manufacturer directly. Sears customer service may be able to provide assistance in locating the specific part or offer alternatives. You can also contact local lawn mower repair shops as they might have access to specialized parts or be able to order the specific part you need.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, as there are often solutions available when you can’t find a specific part.
Are there any alternative parts for my Craftsman lawn mower?
Yes, there are often alternative parts available for Craftsman lawn mowers. Many parts, like blades and belts, can be interchangeable with those from other brands, especially if the mower uses standard sizes. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the alternative parts are compatible with your specific model and have the same specifications as the original parts.
You can consult online forums or contact local repair shops for advice on finding alternative parts.
What if I need to repair my Craftsman lawn mower but can’t find the parts?
If you are unable to find the parts you need to repair your Craftsman lawn mower, you might consider:
- Contacting a repair shop: Local lawn mower repair shops often have access to a wider range of parts or can order specific parts for you.
- Replacing the mower: If the repair costs are substantial or parts are unavailable, it might be more cost-effective to replace the mower with a newer model.
- Upgrading the mower: Consider replacing your Craftsman with a different brand known for its parts availability and reliability.
Assess the cost of repair and the overall condition of your lawn mower to determine the best course of action.
How can I save money on Craftsman lawn mower parts?
There are several ways to save money on Craftsman lawn mower parts:
- Shop around: Compare prices at different online retailers and local stores to find the best deals.
- Look for discounts and coupons: Many retailers offer discounts or coupons on parts, especially during sales periods.
- Consider buying used parts: Online marketplaces like eBay can be a good source for used parts, which can be more affordable.
- Join a parts club: Some retailers offer membership programs with discounts on parts and other benefits.
- Buy parts in bulk: If you need several parts, consider buying them in bulk to get a discount.
By being resourceful and shopping smart, you can save money on Craftsman lawn mower parts.